Control mechanism



June 27,1 E. P. BULLARD, 3D

CONTROL MECHANI SM Filed June 4, 1941 2 Sheets-Sheet 1 INVENTUFL June 27, 1944. BULLARD, 3 2,352,184

CONTROL MECHANISM Filed June 4, 1941 2 Sheets-Sheet 2 IN VE' N TUR Edward P. Bull miLllI Patented June 27, 1944 UNITED STATES PATENT, orncs CONTROL MECHANISM Edward P. Ballard, III, Fairiield, Conn, asaignor to The Ballard Company, a corpo Connecticut rationo! Application June 4, 1941, Serial No. 396,544

48 Claims.

gtus comprising a member adapted to be moved along a path in either direction at any one of a plurality of speeds by the selective actuation of various means that control fluid-actuated means, and clamp means for normally holding the member against movement but adapted to be released upon the actuation of any of the control means; the provision of a fluid system including a plurality of fluid motors on both sides of which relativel low pressure liquid is adapted to be balanced by a traverse-pressure pump during periods of inactivity so that exhausting selected sides of said motors will permit traverse movement thereof; the provision of such afluid mstem in which the traverse-pressure pump supplies liquid to a feed-pressure pump that is adjustable to deliver 'pre-determined quantities of liquid to selected sides of said motors independently of the pressure encountered in moving the motors, and in which the exhaust from said motors is returned to the inlet side of the feed-pressure pump ahead of the traverse-pressure pump; the provision of a fluid system including fluid-motor means for moving one or more members along one or more paths at a relatively rapid traverse rate and at a plurality of feed rates, in which a time-delay mechanism is provided that may be rendered efiective for a pre-determined duration each time the members are moved at rapid traverse rate; and the provision of apparatus comprising a plurality of appliances each including a member adapted to be moved along a plurality of paths by fluid-operated means the activity of which is initiated by a source of power rendered effective by the motion of said members, and in which any member of any of the appliances is capable of rendering eflfective any of said sources of power.

The above, other objects and novel features of the invention will become apparent from the following specification and accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematicrepresentation of apparatus embodying the principles of the invention;

Figure 2 is a diagram oi. a typical operation of 5 the apparatus for turning a work piece to size;

and

Figure 3 is an electrical circuit diagram for three sets of apparatus similar to that of Fig. 1, arranged in cooperative relation.

The principles of the invention have been shown schematically in their simplest form, and although they may be applied with equal facility to any apparatus including one or more members adapted to be moved along one or more paths at any oi. a plurality of speeds, they will be described in connection with apparatus for turning work to size.

This application contains subject matter common to application Serial #353,935, filed August 23, 1940, in the name of Edward P. Bullard III.

Referring to Fig. 1, a tool head I60, adapted to support one or more tools I6I is adapted to be reciprocated along ways I62 on a member I63. The head I60 is connected to a rod I64 that extends through a cylinder I 65, and a piston I66 is fixed to rod I64 for operation within said cylinder.

The member I63 is adapted to be reciprocated along horizontal ways I61, I63 on a supporting member I69. The member I63 is connected to a rod I10 that extends through a cylinder III, and a piston I12 is fixed to rod I10 for operation within cylinder I1I.

Fluid, preferably liquid, under pressure is adapted selectively to be delivered to opposite ends of cylinders I65 and III for moving the toolhead' I along ways I62, and for moving the member I63 along ways I61, I63. In the present embodiment of the invention, the head I60 is adapted to be moved along either path at a relatively rapid traverse rate and at any one of a plurality of relatively slow feed rates. A source of low pressure liquid is provided for the rapid traverse of the head I60, and a feed-pressure pump, adapted to be supplied from the low pressure source, is adapted to be adjusted to deliver predetermined volumes of liquid at a relatively high pressure for feeding head I 60.

A plurality of selectively operable valves are provided for controlling the admission of the pressure liquid to, and exhaust from the cylinders I65 and "I in a liquid-locked system;

Valves I13, I14 control the admission of highpressure liquid to, and exhaust from opposite ends of cylinder I66; while valves I15, I16 control the admission of low-pressure liquid to. and

exhaust from opposite ends of the same cylinder. Valves I11, I18 control the admission of highpressure liquid to, and the exhaust from opposite ends of cylinder "I; while valves I19, I80 control the admission of low pressure liquid to, and the exhaust from cylinder I1 I In order to prevent the head I6 from moving along either of its paths during periods of inactivity, and to prevent over-travel of the head due to momentum, clamping devices I8I, I82 are applied to the-extensions of each ofthe rods I64 and I10, respectively. The clamp I8I includes av slidable collar I83 in the form of a piston operating in a cylinder I84 that is adapted selectively to be supplied with liquid under pressure. A spring I85 on the side of piston I83 opposite that to which pressure liquid is applied normally causes said piston to urge a spring I83 into wedging "engagement with a conical-recessed member I83 thereby effecting clamping of rod I64. A valve I86 is provided between the cylinder I84 and the valves I13, I14, I15 and I16 that is designed to admit liquid under pressure to cylinder I84 each time any one of said valves is'operated. Valve I86 comprises'a plurality of individual abutting piston elements I81, I88, I89 and I90 within a cylinder I9I. The element I90 includes a head I92 adapted to control the admission of liquid under pressure to, and the exhaust from the cylinder I84. In a like manner, a valve I93, including piston elements I98, I95, I96 and I91, is provided between the clamp I82 and valves I11, I18, I19 and I80.

As previously stated, a liquid-locked system is employed, namely, one in which liquid is maintained at all times throughout the system, and

which transmits pressure to any selected part of a the system instantly upon actuating the correct valve. The system comprises a pump I98 adapted to deliver relatively high pressureliquid to efiect release of clamps IN and I82; to continuously urge all valves toward a low positon where the apparatus remains inactive; and to actuate the traverse valves through a time-delay device, to be described later. The system also includes a pump I99 adapted to deliver liquid under a relatively low pressure, but great enough to effect traverse movement of head I60 along its intersecting paths of movement. The apparatus includes numerous conduits and ports for operatively connecting valves I13I80 to cylinders I65 and HI, and the system is so designed that with all of said valves in their low position, equal pressure is supplied to opposite sides of pistons I66 and I12 from pump I99 which pressure is sufficient to move head I60 at traverse speed.

, Accordingly, it is only necessary to exhaust the ends of cylinders I65, "I in the direction it is desired to move head I60 to cause it to move at traverse speed. v

A pump 200 is included in the system and is adapted to be supplied with liquid from pump I99 for delivering predetermined quantities of liquid under high pressure to selected sides of pistons I66, I12 for moving head I60 at feeding rates. The pump 200 is a commercial item that, per se, forms no part of this invention. It is similar to that disclosed in Patent 1,931,969 to Hans Thoma granted October 24, 1933. It comprises a portion 20I that is normally urged toward a horizontal position, shown in solid lines, by a spring 202 that cooperates with a push rod 202'. In the solid line position, zero feed is provided. The member 20I is adapted to be moved to a plurality of positions at which liquid received from pump I99 is delivered in predetermined quantities to the system per revolution of the pump 200. The amount of these predetermined quantities of liquid depends upon the angular adjustment of member 20I, and they are supplied to the system independently of the pressure encountered in feeding the head I6 0 along either of its paths. A relief valve 200' is provided, of course, for safety reasons.

Although the principles of the invention are adapted to be applied with equal facility to any apparatus including one or more members adapted to be moved along one or more paths, it is shown as applied to apparatus for turning work. Accordingly, a work support W (Fig. 2) is located in cooperative position relatively to the tool head I60. Since the feeding of the tool head toward the work on table W should bear a. definite relation to the rotation of said table, the means (not shown) that rotates table W is connected to a gear 203 on thedriving shaft for pump 200. Therefore, the. rate at which table W turns definitely controls the rate at which head I60 is fed during a turning operation.

The specific construction including the valves, pumps, passages, etc., can best be understood by successively operating each valve and tracing the flow of liquid through the system from a source S to the cylinders I65 and I".

With all valves I13 to I in their lower positions, member 20I of pump 200 in its horizontal zero-feed position and pumps I98 and I99 operating, liquid under relatively low traverse pressure is forced from pump I99 through a line'204, containing a relief valve 204', thence through a line 205 to a dividing point 206. Liquid passes through line 2 01 to the bore of valve I16, thence through a duct 208 to the bore of valve I14, thence through a line 209 to the top of cylinder I65. Liquid under the same pressure passes through a line 2I0 from point 206 to the bore of valve I15, thence through a duct 2 to the bore of valve I13, thence through a line 2I2 to the bottom of cylinder I65, thereby balancing piston I66. Likewise, liquid under relatively low traverse pressure passes from line 204 through a line 2I3 to a point 2| 4. Liquid passes from said point through a line 2I5 to the bore of valve I19, thence through a duct 2I6 into the bore of valve I11, thence through a line 2 to the righthand side of cylinder I1I. Additionally, liquid under the same pressure passes from point 2 through a line 2I8 to the bore of valve I80, thence through a duct 2I9 to the bore of valve I18, thence through a line 220 to the left-hand side of cylinder I 1|, thereby balancing piston I12.

Movement of valve I 13 to its upper position permits liquid to pass from pump I99 upwardly through line 204,thence through a line 22I to pump 200 that is in a predetermined position other than that for zero-feed since valve I13 is a feed valve. Predetermined quantities of liquid per revolution of pump 200 are continuously delivered through a line 222, thence through a line 223 into the bore of valve I13, thence through line 2I2 to the bottom of cylinder I65 tending to force piston I66 and tool head I60 upwardly. The continuous supply of these predetermined quantitles of liquid per revolution of pump 200 is independent of the pressure encountered in moving head I6'0, however, above a safe limit of say 1000 pounds per square inch, pressure valve 200' opens. Liquid above piston I66 passes outwardly through line 209 into the bore of valve I14, thence through during interrupted cuts, etc.-

IB1--I99 to the right.

sesame through lines 2I9 and 299 into line 22I ahead of pump I99. Any pressure in excess of the traverse line 299 to the bore of valve I19, thence through .lines 291 and 299 to line 22I that leads to the intake side of pump 299. The pressure of the liquid above the piston I991 cannot exceed the relatively low traverse pressure because of the relief valve'294'. However, this traverse pressure against which feeding must act steadies the feed, preventing the tool from jumping ahead The construction provides a liquid locked system which requires only that amount of liquid from pump I99 that v leaks out of the system-pump I99 merely maintaining a minimum traverse pressure throughout the sytsem when no feeding is being performed. Simultaneously with the flow of pressure liquid as described with valve I19 in its upper position,

high pressure liquid is pumped from source S by pump I98 through a line 224, thence through a "line 225 to chambers 229, 221 above valves I13,

I14 for normally urging them to their lower position. A branch 229 leads from line 225 through which the high pressure liquid passes to a line 229 thence into a groove 299 surrounding a portion of valve I19 (to be described later) thence through a line 29I to a chamber 232 between plunger I99 and head I 92 thereby forcing plungers Additionally, the pressure liquid passes downwardly from line 23I through a line 239 into a valve chamber 234 for valve I19, thence through a duct 235 into a groove 236 surrounding the bore of valve I13, thence through a duct 231 into a groove 238 surrounding the bore of valve I14, thence through a duct 239 into the bore of valve I13. Since valve I13 is in its upper position, liquid under pressure flows out of the bore of valve I13 through a line 299 into the bore of valve I99 between plungers I91 and I88. Since the effective area of the righthand face of plunger I99 is greater than that of the left-hand face of plunger I99, plungers I99, I99 and I99 move leftward, whereupon head I92 opens chamber 232 to a line 2M through which pressure liquid passes to clamp I9I causing collet I83 to move upwardly against the action of spring I85 thereby releasing rod I99. IACCOIdingly, head I99 moves upwardly until the-force that holds valve I13 in its upper position is released, whereupon the high pressure liquid in chamber 229 forces valve I13 downwardly thereby closing oil the line 223 to line 2 I 2 and establishing a balanced traverse pressure on both sides of piston I96. When valve I13 moves to its lower position, it also cuts off communication between duct 239 and line 299 and opens an exhaust port 292. When this occurs, the pressure in chamber 232 forces plungers I91 to I99 rightward cutting ofl communication between lines 23I and 29!, exhausting line 291 to the atmosphere through a port 293 and forcing the liquid between plungers I91 and I39 back through line 299 into the bore of valve I13, thence through the exhaust port 292 and an exhaust line 299 to the source S. Opening of port 2d3'permits spring I95 to render clamp IIII effective to prevent further movement of head I39.

Upon movement of valve'I19 to its upper position with member 291 in the same or a different feeding position, predetermined quantities of liquid under pressure per revolution of the rotor of pump 299 pass through lines 222 and 223 into a groove 295 surrounding the bore of valve I13, thence through a duct 299 into the bore of valve I14, thence through the line 299 to the top of cylinder I35. Liquid below piston I99 passes through line 2 I 2 into the bore of valve I13, thence through line 2II to the bore of valve I15, thence pressure is relieved through valve 294'.

While valve Il4is in its upper position, highpressure liquid irom chamber 294 passes through duct 299, groove 299 and duct 291 into the bore of valve I14, thence through aline 241 to the bore of valve I99 between. plungers I99 and I99 forcing plungers I89 and I99 to the left thereby admitting liquid under pressure from chamber 292 to line 2 whereby clamp I9! is released.

Upon release of the force holding valve I14 in its upper position, high-pressure liquid in chamber 221 forces said valve downwardly cutting oit communication between ducts 241, 291 and lines 299, 249, respectively, and opening an exhaust port 248. Accordingly, no additional liquid is pumped by pump 299 through line 299 to the top of cylinder I99, and low traverse pressure is established on each side of piston I99. Plungers I99 and I99 are moved rightward by the pressure liquid in. chamber 292, thereby rendering clamp I 8 I eflective. Y

The traverse movement of head I99 usually occurs immediately following a feeding movement. which the tool I9I cleans up the work when a feeding cut is terminated, a time-delay is provided that is effective to -prevent the beginning of a traverse movement of head I99 for a predetermined short time interval after valves I15, I19, I19 and I99 are actuated.

Valve I19 includes a mechanically-operated plunger 299. This plunger comprises an upper head portion 259 having an efiective area less than the upper face area of a lower portion 25L High-pressure liquid from line 223 passes through a line 252, thence into a groove 253 that encircles a portion of valve I15, thence through a, line 299 to the bore of plunger 299, and forces plunger 25I downwardly. Additionally, said high pressure liquid enters an annular chber 259 surrounding a piston 251 and acts on a 3i. .1.

259 thereof engages a stop 299. Furthermore, high pressure liquid from the bore 299 passes through a duct 29I into the bore of valve I19, acts against a fixed plate 292 and valve I19 forcing the latter to a low position.

Adjustable means, to be described later, is provided for moving valve 299 upwardly a predetermined distance whereby the lower face of head 239 uncovers a port 293 a pre-determined amount. Liquid under high pressure from chamber 299 passes through port 293 into the cylinder containing piston 251, and acts against its lower face and a fixed plate 299. Simultaneously therewith, liquid passes from port 293 to the bore of valve I15 above plate 292. Since the lower face area of piston 251 is substantially greater than that of the lower face of the top spool of valv I19, piston 231 rises until flange 239 engages stop 299. Thereafter, valve I19 rises to the limit of its stroke. The amount port 293 is opened will determine the flow of liquid under pressure into the cylinder containing piston 29.1, therate of upward movement of said piston and henc the time-delay or dwell before initiating the upward movement of valve I15.

, As previously stated, when all valves I19 to I99 are in their lower position, relatively low traverse pressure is maintained on both sides of pistons I96 and I12. When valve I15 moves to its upper limit, it cuts ofi' an exhaust 295 and permits liquid to flow from, chamber 295 through a duct 299 into the bore for valve I19, thence through a line 291 In order to provide ample time within" 258 thereof forcing said piston downwardly until a flange into the bore of valve I36 between plunger I31 and the end of said valve bore, forcing elements pressure to line 24I and eifecting release of clamp I3I. Additionally, when valve I15 moves upwardly, it establishes communication between line 2 and an exhaust port 266 in the bore for valve I15. Accordingly, liquid in the lower end of cyl- I31 to I30 leftward thereby admitting liquid under tributes. predetermined quantities of liquid under high pressure to selected sides of both pistons I66 and I12 depending upon which valve I13, I14, I11 or I13 is operated. Additionally, valves I13 and I30 include time-delay means identical with that of valves I15 and I16. Furthermore, valve I33 is identical in function and operation with that of valve I33. It controls clamp I32 and is governed by valves I11 to I30, inclusive.

With a predetermined angular setting of mem-' ber I for a given feed, movement of valve I11 to its upper position will permit high-pressure holding plunger 251 and valve I15 in their upper positions exhausts through port 263 and the pressure liquid in annular chamber 256 and that which passes through duct 26I forces piston 251 and valve I15 to their lower positions.

As valve I15 moves to its lower position, exhaust port 265 is opened and communication between duct 266 and line 261 is cut oil thereby rendering clamp I3I effective. At the same time, exhaust port 263 is closed and communication between lines 2I0 and 2 is re-establlshed thereby balancing the traverse pressure on each side of piston I66.

The valve I16 and its time-delay is identical with that of valve I15 and its time-delay. Movement of a plunger 210 upwardly a pre-determined distance by means similar to that for raising plunger 243 admits liquid under pressure from chamber 234 to a cylinder 21l containing a piston 212. Pressure liquid also flows into the space between th'ebottom face of the top spool of valve I16 and a fixed plate 213. Accordingly, piston 212 moves upwardly to the top of its stroke before valve I16 is raised throughout the limit of its stroke,

Upward movement of valve I16 cuts of! an exhaust port 214 and establishes communication between duct 235 and a line 215, through which pressure liquid passes to valve I36 between plungers I33 and I30, forcing plunger I30 leftward thereby admitting pressure liquid to line 2 and releasing clamp I3I. At the same time, an exhaust port 216 of the bore for valve I16 is opened and liquid from the top of cylinder I65 passes outwardly through line 203 into the bore of valve I14, thence through duct 203 to the bore of valve I16 and thence through the exhaust port 216 Upon release of the force holding plunger 210 in .212 and valve I16 in their upper positions exhaust through a port 211, whereupon said piston and valve descend to their lower positions due to the pressure liquid in chamber 234. As valve I16 descends it opens exhaust port 214 to line 216 and cuts on communication between duct 235 and line 215, whereupon clamp I3I becomes eifective. At the same time, exhaust port 216 is closed and communication is re-established between line 201 and duct 203 thereby balancing the traverse pressure on each side of piston I66.

The operation and function of valves I11, I 13, I13 and I80 are identical with that of valves I13, I14, I15 and I16, respectively. The feed-pressure 200 is common to both sets of valves and disliquid to pass from line 222 through a line 213 into the bore of valve I11, thence through the line 2I1 to the right-hand side of piston I12. Liquid under pressureon the'left-hand side of piston I12 passes outwardly through line 220 into the bore of valve I13, thence through a duct 2I3 to the bore of valve I30, thence through lines 2I3 and 2I3 to line 22I ahead of pump I33. At the same time, liquid under pressure is maintained by pump I33 in lines 224, 213, 230, 23I, groove 232 surrounding a portion of valve I13, line 232 and chamber 234. Additionally, liquid under pressure is maintained in lines 235, a groove 236 surrounding a portion of valve I30, lines 231,

' 233, chamber233, line 230 and chamber 23I. Ac-

through line 2I1. into the its upper position, it moves downwardly thereby permitting the pressure liquid that holds piston a I ahead of pump m. Additionally, withvalve m in its upper position, high-pressure liquid from chamber 233 passes through ducts 232 and 234 thence through'a linecordingly, as valve I11 moves to its upper position, high pressure liquid passes from chamber 233 through a duct 232 into a groove 233 surrounding valve I30, thence through a duct 234 into a groove 235 surrounding valve I13, thence .through a duct 236 into the bore of valve I11, th'ence through a line 231 into the bore of valve I33 between plungers I34 and I35 thereby forcing plungers I35, I36 and I31 to the left, admitting liquid from chamber 23I to a line 233 and releasing clamp I32.

Upon release of the force holding valve I11 in its upper position, high-pressure liquid from line 213 passes into a chamber 233 forcing valve I11 downwardly. Downward movement of valve I11 interrupts communication between lines 218 and 2I1 and re-establishes communication between lines 2I6 and 2I1 thereby balancing the traverse pressure on each side of piston I 12. At the same time, downward movement of valve I11 opens line 231 to an exhaust 300. Consequently, the pressure in chamber 23I forces plungers I35, I36 and I31 rightward thereby exhausting line 233 and rendering clamp I32 efiective.

Movement of valve I13 to its upper position permits liquid under high pressure to pass from line 213 into a groove 30I surrounding the bore of valve I11, thence through a duct 302 into the bore of valve I13, thence through line 220 to the left-hand side of cylinder I1I. Liquid from the right-hand side of piston I12 passes outwardly the bore I13, thence through lines 2I5, 2I3' bore forvalve I11,'; thence through .duct 2I6-to sure on each side of piston I12. Additionally, as valve I18 moves downwardly, it interrupts communication between duct 294 and line 303. It also opens line 303 to an exhaust 305, whereupon plungers I96 and I91 move rightward, venting line 298 to the atmosphere and rendering clamp I82 eil'ective.

Movement of a member 306 upwardly a predetermined distance by means to be described later passes liquid under pressure at a determined rate through a port 301 into cylinders containing a piston 308. and the top spool of valve I19 causing the piston 308 to rise to its upper limit and then valve I19 to rise. establishes communication between duct 2I6 and an exhaust port 309, and interrupts communication between duct 2I6 and line 2I5, whereupon liquid on the right-hand side of piston I12 passes through line 2" to the bore of valve I11, thence through duct M6 to the bore of valve I19 thence to the atmosphere through exhaust port 309. At the same time valve I19 cuts 011 an exhaust port 3I0 and permits pressure liquid from chamber 284 to pass through a duct 3 into the bore of valve I19, thence through a line 3I2 to the bore of valve I93 moving piston members I94 to I91 leftward, admitting pressure liquid to line 298 and releasing clamp I82. Upon release of As valve I19 rises, it

the force holdingmember 306 in its upper position, it descends thereby permitting the liquid beneath piston 308 and that beneath the top spool of valve I19 to pass through port 301 to an exhaust port 3I3, whereupon piston 308 and valve I19 descend. As valve I19 descends, exhaust port 309 is closed and communication is re-established between line 2I5 and duct 2I6 thereby balancing the traverse pressure on both sides of piston I12. At ,the same time duct 3 is cut off from line 3I2, which latter is then open to exhaust port 3I0 whereupon plungers I94 to I91 move rightward exhausting line 298 and rendering clamp I82 efiective.

Finally, movement of a plunger 3" to a predetermined upper position, permits liquid from chamber 289 to pass through a duct 3I5 into a cylinder beneath a piston 3I6 and beneath the top spool of valve I80 causing the piston to rise at a predetermined rate and thereafter the valve I80. Upward movement of valve I80 interrupts 2 communication between line 2I8 and duct 2I9.

It also vents duct 2I9 to an exhaust port 3", whereupon liquid on the left-hand side of piston I12 passes outwardly through line 220 into the bore of valve I18, thence through duct 2I9 to the bore of valve I80, thence to the atmosphere through the exhaust port 3| 1. Additionally, when valve I80 is in its upper position, pressure liquid from chamber 289 passes through duct 292 to the bore of valve I80, thence through a line 3I8 to the bore for valve I93 forcing piston I91 leftward, admitting liquid to line 298 and releasing clamp I82.

Upon release of the force'holding' plunger 3 in an upper position, itdescends permitting the liquid beneath piston 3I6 and beneath the top spool of valve I80 to pass outwardly through duct 3I5 to an exhaust port 3I9, whereupon said piston and valve I80 descend due to the pressure liquid from chamber 289 passing through lines 288, 281 and through a duct 320 that delivers said liquid into a chamber between a fixed plate 32I and one face of a spool of valve I80. As valve I80 descends, it closes exhaust 3H and reestablishes' communication between line 2I8 ing line 29a and rendering clamp m effective.

Selective actuation of valves I13 to I80 inclusive is adapted to be effected by the successive indexing of a pattern drum 323 from station to station about a horizontal axis. The drum 323 is provided with circumferentially arranged series of holes 324 beneath valves I13, I14, I11, I18 and plungers 25I, 210, 306 and 3, as well as beneath the stem 202'which supports-spring 202 .of the feed-pressure pump 200. Dogs 325 are adapted to be fixed to said drum by means pass ing through holes 324. These dogs are adapted to be arranged on the drum in accordance with a predetermined pattern for controlling the movement of the head I to produce the desired pattern. Drum 323 is adapted to be preset by the operator each time it is desired to produce a different cycle of operation of head I60 in performing work. This'pre-setting of drum 323 is to be distinguished from the. designing of certain types of automatic machinery in which a pre-determined fixed cycle of operation is built into the machine. The operation of the apparatus in performing a relatively simple pattern will be described later.

Successive indexing of drum 323 is adapted to be effected by any desirable power-operated means. In the embodiment disclosed, 2. Geneva stop wheel 326 fixed to drum 323 is adapted to be actuated by a crank 321. Crank 321 is connected to a motor 328 that is provided with a cam disc 329. The disc 329 cooperates with a holding switch 330 such that upon energization of the circuit for motor 328, switch 330 will close and remain closed only for a single revolution of crank 321.

Energization of the circuit for motor 328 is adapted selectively to be efiect'ed in response to any position the head I60 may assume along its paths of motion. Accordingly, the source of power that is employed to index drum 323 is independent of the force required to move head I60, but is rendered efiective by the motion of said head. The extension of rod I10, connected to head I60, is provided with a finger 33I that is adapted to move longitudinally over a drum 332. Drum 332 is provided with as many peripherallyspaced longitudinal slots 333 as there are holes 324 in a series surrounding drum 323. Dogs 334 are adapted to be adjustably positioned within selected slots 333 for cooperation with finger33 I.

a Drum 332 is adapted to be mounted for slight and duct 2" thereby equalizing the traverse 10 ted in either direction from a neutral position.

However, upon release of the force that moves rod 339 in either direction, it is instantly returned to its neutral position. Rod 339 is connected to drum 332 through a link 343 that fits within a circumferential groove 344 on a shaft 345 that supports said drum.

Shaft 345 is provided with an additional groove 335 within which rests a button 331 of a nor.- maily-open switch 338. The switch 335 is in circuit with motor 328. Accordingly, slight axial movement of drum 332 in either direction closes switch 338 and energizes the circuit for motor 328. Shaft 335 is provided with a gear 358. Gear 358 meshes with a gear "I fixed to rotate with drum 323. Accordingly, upon head I58 moving alongits horizontal path due to a setting on drum 323, finger 33I will engage a dog 333 in a slot 333 of drum 332 and move said drum axially a slight amount whereupon switch 338 closes causing motor 328 to index drum 323 to its next succeeding station where the same or a different set of valves I13-I88 is actuated. Slight axial movement ,between gears 358 and 35I may oc cur without dis-engaging said gear. Simultaneously with the indexing of drum 323, drum 332 is also indexed to position the next succeeding slot 333 in line with finger 33I. This new slot may contain a dog 333 adapted to be engaged by finger 33| thereby determining the amount of movement of head I58 for the new setting on drum 323.

Rod I53 is likewise provided with a finger 352 adapted to engage dogs 353 on a drum 353. Drum 353 is mounted for slight axial movement in the same manner that drum 332 is mounted, and a switch 355, provided for drum 353, is connected in parallel with switch 335. Drum 353 is provided with a shaft 355 ioumaled in a bracket 351 integral with slide member I53. Accordingly, movement of head I58 horizontally moves drum 353 in the same direction to maintain it at all times in cooperative position relatively to finger 352. A bevel gear 358 keyed to shaft 355 meshes with a bevel gear 358 splined on a shaft 358 that is held against axial movement. Shaft 358 is provided with a gear 35I, keyed thereto, which meshes with gear 35I of drum 323.

From the foregoing, it is evident that the fingers 33I and 352 move proportionally to the movement of head I58, and that upon engagement of either of said fingers with dogs 333 and 353, motor 328 is rendered active to index drum 323 to its next succeeding position. Also, upon the indexing of drum 323, both drums 332 and 353 are likewise indexed to position their next succeeding slots in cooperative position with fingers 33I and 352, respectively. Accordingly, an arrangement is provided whereby the movement of head I58 along its respective paths, as dictated by one setting on drum 323, is not affected by subsequent movements of head I58 due to the same or different settings on drum 323. This arrangement renders the apparatus extremely versatile and permits head I58 to perform a cycle of operation that is adapted to include a series of operations and wherein the path, rate, starting and stopping of movement of head I58 for each operation can be selected independently of the selection for every other operation.

As previously described, adjustable means is provided for varying the angular position of member 28I of feed-pressure pump 288 to provide varying feed rates. The means comprises dogs 325 of varying height that are adapted to be attached to drum 323 by means passing through the holes 823 in line with the stem 282' of member 28I. Obviously, when it is desired to feed head I58 along either of its paths, it is only necessary to place a dog 325 at the proper place on drum 323 to move the desired feed valve I13, I13, I11 or I18 to its upper position, and to the desired feed on drum 323 in axial line with the mentioned feed dog and inradial alignment with stem 282'.

Furthermore, adjustable means is also provided to move the traverse valve plungers 25I, 218, 385, and 3 upwardly predetermined distances to control the opening of the port 253, and those for the cylinders containing pistons 212, 388 and 3I5. Accordingly, the .fiow of liquid into said cylinders may be controlled and hence the timedelay prior to beginning of traverse movement of the invention, the apparatus disclosed is shown set up to perform a cycle of operation on a piece of material 353. The material to be worked is cylindrical in form as shown by the dotted lines of Fig. 2. Assume that it is desired to produce a great number stepped pieces of work from pieces of material such as 353. The form of the finished pieces is represented by solid lines in Fig. 2.

For initially setting up the machine, an auxiliary crank 355 is provided including a handle 355. The crank 355 is adapted to cooperate with the Geneva wheel 325 in the same manner that crank 321 cooperates therewith.

With the pumps I88 and I88 operating, no

dogs on any of the drums 323, 332, 353 and the tool I5l at a starting point spaced from the work,

, the apparatus is in condition for setting.

A dog 325 is secured to drum 323 at point I such that upon indexing the drum said dog will move plunger 385 upwardly. The distance between the starting point and point I (Fig. 2) is laid oif from finger 33I and a dog 333 is secured to drum 332 at point I in the slot 333 thereof that will align itself with finger 33I upon indexing drum 323. Switch 338 is manually closed for an instant, whereupon drum 323 is indexed.

Accordingly, tool I5I is moved to point I (Fig. 2)

at which it stops due to finger 33I engaging dog I on drum 332 and moving said drum axially to close switch 338 to index drum 323. Hand crank 355 is turned in a direction to reversely index drum 323 through only one-half an index such that number I dog thereon does not engage plunger 385. A dog 325 is secured to drum 323 at point II in line with valve I18 and such that upon a forward half index of drum 323, it will place a dog 325 of a height commensurate with raise valve I18. A dog 325 is also secured to drum 323 in axial alignment with dog number II and beneath stem 282'. The height of this dog 325 depends upon the rate of feed desired between. points I and II (Fig. 2) for establishing the diameter (a) of the work 353. The distance between points I and II (Fig. 2) is laid off along drum 332 from finger 33I, and a dog 333 is secured to said drum at point 11 thereon in the slot 333 thereof that will align itself with finger 33I upon a forward half index of drum 323. Handcrank 355 is then turned to give a forward half index to drum 323, whereupon tool I5I moves to point II (Fig. 2) and stops.

Handcrank 355 is again turned to give a reverse half index. and a dog 325 is secured to drum 323 at point 111 such that upon a forward half index of drum 323 it will raise plunger 25I The vertical distance between points II and III Fig. 2 is laid ofl from finger 352 and a dog 353 is secured to drum 353 at point III in the slot 353 thereofthat will align itself with finger 352 upon a forward half index of drum 323. Handcrank 335 is then turned to provide a forward half index of drum 323, whereupon tool Ill moves from point II to III Fig. 2 at traverse speed at which point it stops.

Drum 323 is again given a reverse half index by hand. and a dog 32! is secured to drum 323 at point IV, and a dog 32! of the desired height is secured in axial alignment with number IV dog and in radial alignment with stem 232'. The distance between points III and IV Fig. 2 is laid oil from finger 332 and a dog 333 is secured to drum 334 at point IV, in the slot 333' thereof that will align itself with finger 353 upon a forward half index of drum 323. Drum 323 is given a forward half index whereupon tool "I moves from point III to point IV (Fig. 2) at which it stops. Drum 323 is given a reverse half index and a dog 323 is secured thereto at point V. The height of dog 323 at point V depends upon the dwell .desired at the point IV (Fig. 2). The distance between points IV and V is laid oil from finger 352 and a dog 353 is secured to drum 3 at point V within the slot 353' that aligns itself with finger 352 upon a forward half index of drum 323. Drum 323 is then given a forward half index, whereupon tool "I moves from point IV to point V Fig. 2 where it stops.

The above precedure is followed in setting dogs at points V to XII inclusive on drum 323 with corresponding dogs on the correct drum 332 or 3". Additionally, the correct size of dogs 32! are secured at the proper points on drum 323 to control the feed rate and time of dwell, for trav- Upon completion of the set-up and error-compensating re-adjustment, if any is required, it is only necessary to load the support W, push a button to close switch 333 to initiate the cycle and remove the completed work piece each time the apparatus comes to rest.

As previously stated, the subject matter of this I application is similar to that of application Serial #353,935 filed August 23, 1940. Accordingly, a plurality of heads or members such as I60 may be provided with substantially identical fluid-operated apparatuses and controls therefor, the operation of which controls may be initiated from the drum 323 in the same manner as the operation of the plurality of controls of said application 553,935 are initiated from the drum I32 of said application.

Referring to Fig. 3, an electrical circuit is disclosed for three appliances similar to that of Fig. 1 arranged in cooperative relation. As shown, the motors 323, 3231 and 3232 are adapted to index control drums 323, 3231 and 3232, respectively. Each of the circuits includes flve switches in parallel for starting the motors 323, 3231 and 3232. The circuit includes switches 338, 3331 and 3432; 355, 3551, 355:; and 330, 3301, 333:; arranged in the manner described with respect to the switches 343, 355 and 330 of the appliance of Fig. 1. Additionally, the drum 323 contains means for closing switches 331 and 333 in the circuits for motors 3231 and 323:, respectively; drum 3231 contains similar means for closing tains similar means for closing switches 33'': and 3": in the circuits for motors 323 and 3231, respectively.

From the foregoing description of Figs. 1 and 3, it is evident that a plurality of separate members is adapted repeatedly to perform various cycles of operation in each of which may be produced selectively a plurality of different direcq tions and rates of motion of the members I33 in accordance with the setting of the dogs on theindividual drums 323; that at any time during operation of one unit, the operation of another unit may be started; and that the units may be operated individually or simultaneously such that numerous functions may be performed by numerous members in accordance with any predetermined sequential order.

Although the various features of the invention have been shown and described in detail to fully disclose one embodiment of the invention, it will be evident that numerous changes may be, made in such details, and certain features may be used without others, without departing from the principles of the invention.

What is claimed is:

1. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted successively to be moved in either direction along a path at any one of a plurality of speeds; a fluid-motor for moving said member; separate means for each direction of motion of said member adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said motor; pre-settable means adapted selectively to operate a plurality of means including selected of said control means; a source of power for operating said pre-settable means; and means for determining the extent of successive movements of said member comprising separate adjustable means for each successive movemeat and responsive thereto at any point along the path of travel of said member for determining when said source of power is to be rendered effective, whereby both limits of. movement of said member along said path may be varied.

. for controlling the .admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said motor; pre-settable means adapted selectively. to operate a plurality of means V including selected of said controllin means;v a

source of power for operating said pre-settable means; and separate means'responsive to each successive movement of said member for operating -an electric circuit to render efiective said source of power.

3. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted successively to be moved more than twice along a path at any one of a plurality of speeds within a cycle of operation; a fluidmotor for moving said member; separatemeans for each direction of 'motion of said member adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said motor; means adapted to be pre-set for selectively operating one or more of a plurality of switches 3311 and 3331 in the circuits for motors 323 and 323:, respectively; and drum 3232 con- 'means including selected of said controlling means; means for indexing said pre-settablesuccessive movement of said member within saidv cycle of operation comprising adjustable means responsive to the movement 01' said member and effective at a plurality of points along its path of travel for determining when said source of power is to be rendered efl'ective, whereby bothlimits of movement of said member along said path may be varied.

4. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a path at any one of a plurality oi speeds; a fluid motor for moving said member; means adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said fluid motor; means adapted to be pre-set for selectively operating one or more of a plurality of means including selected of said controlling means; means forindexing said pre-settable means from station to station: a source of power for indexing said pre-settable means; means responsive to the movement of said member for determining when said source of power is to be rendered effective; and means for indexing said determining means simultaneously with the indexing of said pre-settable means. 7

5. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a path at any one of a plurality of speeds; a fluid motor for moving said member; means adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said motor; pre-settable means adapted selectively to be indexed from station to station for operating one or more of a plurality of means including selected of said controlling means; a source of power for indexing said pre-settable means; and means adapted to be moved in respons to the movement of said member to render said source oi! power effective, said last mentioned means being adapted to be indexed simultaneously with the indexing of said pre-settable means.

6. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted tobe moved in either direction along a path at any one of a plurality of speeds; a fluid motor for moving said member; a traversepressure pump adapted to maintain a balanced pressure on each side of said fluid motor during periods of inactivity; a feed-pressure pump adapted to be supplied with fluid from said traversepressure pump and adapted to be adjusted for delivering predetennined quantities of fluid to selected sides of said fluid motor independently of the pressure encountered in moving the piston 01 said motor; means adapted selectivel to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said fluid motor; means adapted to be pre-set for selectively operating one or more of a plurality of means including selected of said control means; a source of power for operating said pre-settable means; and means responsiveto the movement of said member for determining when said source of power is to be rendered eflective.

7. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction direction along a path at any one of a plurality of speeds; a fluid motor for moving said member; a traverse-pressure pump adapted to maintain a balanced pressure on each side of said fluid motor during periods of inactivity; a feedpressure pump adapted to be supplied with fluid from said traverse-pressure pump and adapted to be adjusted for delivering predetermined quantities of fluid to selected sides of said fluid motor independently of the pressure encountered in moving the piston of said motor; control means adapted upon selective operation to exhaust fluid from selected sides 0! said fluid motor, to select the side of said motor to which said pre-determined quantities oi! fluid are adapted to be delivered and to connect the side of said motor, opposite that to which said fluid is delivered, to the inlet of said teed-pressure pump ahead of said traverse-pressure pump; means adapted to be pre-set for selectively operating one or more of a plurality of means including selected of said control means; a source of power for operating said control means; and means responsive to the movement or said member for determining when said source of power is to be rendered effective."

8. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a plurality of paths at a plurality of speeds; separate fluid motors adapted to move said member along its respective-paths at any one of said plurality of speeds; common means adapted to be pre-set for rendering effective one or more of a plurality of means including any one of said fluid motors; a source of power for operat ing said common means; and separate means for each path along which said member is adapted to be moved including adjustable means adapted to be located at the same or different points relatively to said path for determining when said source of power is to be rendered efi'ective, during successive movements of said member along said path in a cycle of operation.

9. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a plurality of paths at a plurality of speeds; separate fluid motors adapted to move said member along its respective paths at any of said plurality of speeds; common means adapted to be re-set for rendering effective one or more of a plurality of means including any one ofsaid fluid motors; a source of power for operating said common means; and separate means for each path alongwhich said member is adapted to be moved for operating an electric circuit to render effective said source of power.

10. Apparatus comprising in combination a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a plurality of paths at a plurality of speeds; separate fluid motors adapted to move said memher along its respective paths at any of said plurality of speeds; common means adapted to be pre-set and adapted to be indexed from station to station for rendering eifective one or more of a plurality of means including any one of said fluid motors; a source of power for indexing said common means; and separate means for each path along which said member is adapted to be, moved including adjustable means adapted to be located at the same or diiferent points relatively to said path for determining when said source of power is to be rendered effective, during successive movements of said member along said path in a cycle of operation.

11. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a plurality of paths at a plurality of speeds; separate fluid motors adapted to move said member along its respective paths at any of said plurality of speeds; common means adapted to be pre-set and adapted to be indexed from station to station for rendering efiective one or more of a plurality of means including any one of said fluid motors; a source of power for indexing said common means; separate means for each path along which said member is adapted to be moved for determining when said source of power is to motors; a source of power for indexing said common means; separate means for each path along which said member is adapted to be moved and movable in response to the movement of said member for determining when said source oi power is to be rendered efiective; and means for indexing said separate means simultaneously with the indexing of said common means.

13. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a plurality of paths at a plurality of speeds; separate fluid motors adapted to move said member along its respective paths at any of said plurality of speeds; a traverse-pressure pump adapted to maintain a balanced pressure on each side of said fluid motors during periods of inactivity; a feed-pressure pump adapted to be supplied with fluid from said traverse-pressure pump and adapted to be adjusted for delivering pre-determined quantities of fluid to selected sides of said fluid motors independently of the pressure encountered in moving. the pistons of said motors; means adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said fluid motors; common means adapted to be pre-set for operating selected of said controlling means; a source of power for operating said common means; and separate means for each path along which said member is adapted to be moved for determining when said source of power is to be rendered eflfective.

14. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a plurality of paths at a plurality of speeds; separate fluid motors adapted to move said member along its respective paths at any of said plurality of speeds; a traverse-pressure pump adapted to maintain a balanced pressure on each side of said fluid motors during periods of inactivity; a feed-pressure pump adapted to be supplied with fluid from said traverse-pressure pump and adapted to be adjusted for delivering pre-determined quantities of fluid to selected sides oii any one of said fluid motors independently of the pressure encountered in moving the piston of said motor; control means adapted upon selective operation to exhaust fluid from selected sides of said fluid motor, to select the side of said motor to which said pro-determined quantities of fluid are adapted to be delivered and to connect the side of said motor, opposite that to which said fluid is delivered, to the inlet of said feed-pressure pump ahead of said traverse-pressure pump; common means adapted to be pre-set for operating selected of said control means; a source of power for operating said common means; and separate means for each path along which said member is adapted to be moved for determining when said source of power is to be rendered effective.

15. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; a support; a fluid motor for providing more than two successive relative movements between said member and support within a cycle of operation; separate means for each direction of said relative movement for controlling the admission of fluid to, and the exhaust from said fluid motor; means adapted to be pre-set ior operating selectively one or more of a plurality of means including selected 0! said controlling means; a source of power for operating said presettable means; and means for determining the extent of each relative movement within said cycle of operation comprising separate adjustable means responsive to each of said relative movements and eflective at a plurality of points along the path of said relative movements for determining when said source of power is to be rendered eflective, whereb both limits oi! said relative movement between said member and support may be varied.

16. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; a support; a fluid motor for providing more than two successive relative movements between said member and support within a cycle of operation; separate means for each direction oi! said relative movement for controlling the admissionot fluid to, and the exhaust from said fluid motor; means adapted to be pre-set for operating selectively one or more of a plurality of means including selected of said controlling means; a source 01' power for operating said presettable means and means for determining the extent of each relative movement within said cycle 01' operation comprising separate adjustable means responsive to each of said relative movements and eflective at a plurality of points along the path of said relative movements for operating an electric circuit to render effective said source of power.

17. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; a support; a fluid motor for providing relative movement between said member and support; means for controlling the admission of fluid to, and the exhaust from said fluid motor; presettable means adapted to be indexed from station to station for operating selectively one or more of a plurality of. means including selected 0! said controlling means; a source of power for indexing said pre-settable means; and means adapted to be indexed from station to station simultaneously with the indexing 01' said pre-settable means and responsive to said relative movement for determining when said source 01' power is to be rendered effective.

18. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; a support; means for providing relative rotation between said member and support; a fluid motor for providing more than two successive relative rectilinear movements between said member and support during a cycle of operation; separate means for each direction of said relative rectilinear movement adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said fluid motor; means adapted to be pre-set for operating selected of said controlling means; a source of power for operating said pre-settable means; and means for determining the extent of each of said relative rectilmear movements within said cycle of operation comprising separate adjustable means responsive to each of said relative rectilinear movements and eflective at a plurality of points along the path of said"relative rectilinear movements for determining when said source of power is to be rendered eifective, whereby both limits of said relative rectilinear movement between said member and support may be varied.

19. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; a support; means for providing relative rotation between said member and support; a

fluid motor for providing more than two succesmovement within said cycle of operation for operating an electric circuit to render efiective said source of power.

20. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; a support; means for rotating said support; a fluid motor for providing more than two successive relative rectilinear movements between said member and said support during a cycle of operation; separate means for each direction of said relative rectilinear movement adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said fluid motor; means adapted to be pre-set for moving selected of said controlling means; an additional source of power, separate from the power developed by the relative rectilinear motion between said member and support for operating said presettable means; and means for determining the extent oi. each of said relative rectilinear movements within said cycle of operation comprising separate adjustable means for each of said relative rectilinear movements responsive thereto and eflective at a plurality oi. points along the path of said relative rectilinear movements for determining when said additional source of power is to be rendered effective whereby both limits of said relative rectilinear movement between said member and support may be varied.

21. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; a support; means for providing relative rotation between said member and support; a fluid motor for providing relative rectilinear movement between said member and support; a traverse-pressure pump adapted to maintain a balanced pressure on each side of said fluid motor during periods of inactivity; a feed-pressure pump adapted to be supplied with fluid Irom said traverse-pressure pump and adapted to be adjusted for delivering pre-determining quantities of fluid to selected sides of said fluid motor independently of the pressure encountered in moving the piston 01 said motor; means adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said fluid motor; means adapted to be pre-set for moving selected of said controlling means; a source of power for operating said pre-settable means; and means responsive to saidv relative rectilinear movement for determining when said source of power is to be rendered efl'ective.

22. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; a support; means for providing relative rotation between said member and support;-a fluid motor for providing relative rectilinear movement between said member and support; a traverse-pressure pump adapted to maintain a balanced pressure on each side of said fluid motor during periods of inactivity; a teed-pressure pump adapted to be supplied with fluid from said traverse-pressure pump and adapted to be adjusted for delivering pre-determined quantities of fluid to selected sides of said fluid motor independently oi the pressure encountered in moving the piston of said motor; means adapted upon selective operation to exhaust fluid from selected sides of said fluid motor, to select the side of said motor to which said predetermined quantities of fluid are adapted to be delivered and to connect the side of said motor, opposite that to which said fluid is delivered, to the inlet of said feed-pressure pump ahead of said traverse-pressure pump; means adapted to be pre-set for operating selected of said selectively-operable means; a source oi power for operating said pre-settable means; and means responsive to said relative rectilinear movement for determining when said source of power is to be rendered effective.

23. Apparatus comprising in combination, a support; a member; fluid motors for providing relative movement between said member and support along a plurality of paths; means adapted to control the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said fluid motors; common means adapted to be pre-set for operating selected 01 said controlling means; a source of power for operating said common means; and separate means for each path along which said relative movement is to be effected for determining when said source 01 power is to be rendered eflective.

24. Apparatus comprising in combination, a support; a member; fluid motors for providing relative movement between said member and support along a plurality of paths; means adapted to control the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said fluid motors; common means adapted to be pre-set for operating selected 0! said controlling means; a source of power for operating said common means; and separate means for each path along which said relative movement is to be efiected and responsive to said relative movement for operating an electric circuit to render effective said source of power.

25. Apparatus comprising in combination, a support; a member; fluid motors for providing relative movement between said member and support along a plurality of paths; means adapted to control the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said fluid motors; common means adapted to be pre-set for operating selected of said controlling means; a source ofpower tor indexing said common means from station to station; separate means for each path along which said relative movement is to be effected for determining when said source of power is to be rendered effective; and means for indexing said separate means from station to station simultaneously with the indexing of said common means.

26. Apparatus comprising in combination, a

member; a support; means for providing relative.

rotation between said member and support; separate fluid motors for providing a plurality of relative rectilinear movements between said member and support along a plurality oi paths at a plurality of speeds during a cycle of operation; common means adapted to be pre-set for rendering effective any of said fluid motors; a source of power. for operating said common means; and separate means for each path of said relative rectilinear movement including separate adjustable means for each relative rectilinear movement of said member within said cycle of operation for dezermining when said source of power is to be re dered eflective. w

27. Apparatus comprising in combination, a

member; a support; means for providing relative rotation between said member and support; separate fluid motors for providing relative rectilinrectilinear movement between said member and support along a plurality of paths at a plurality of speeds; common means adapted to be pre-set for rendering effective any of said fluid motors;

an additional source oi power, separate from that developed by the relative rectilinear motion between'said member and support, 'for operating said common means; and separate means for each path of, and responsive to said relative rectilinear movemen'tior determining when said additional source of power is to be rendered eiiective.

29. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; a support; means for providing relative rotation between said member and support; separate fluid motors for providing-relative rectilinear movement between said member and support along a plurality of paths at a plurality of speeds; a traverse-pressure pump adapted to maintain a balanced pressure on each side of said fluid motors during periods of inactivity; a feedpressure pump adapted to be supplied with fluid from said traverse-pressure pump and adapted to be adjusted for delivering pre-determined quantities oi fluid to selected sides of said fluid motors independently of the pressure encountered in moving the pistons of said motors; means for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said fluid motors; common means adapted to be pre-set for rendering eflectiv'e any of said control means; a source of power for operating said common means; and separate means for each path of, and responsive to said relative rectilinear movement for determining when said source of power is to berendered efiective.

30. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; a support; means for providing relative rotation between said member and support; separate fluid motors for providing relative rectilinear movements between said member and support along a plurality of paths at a plurality of speeds; a traverse-pressure pump adapted to maintain a balanced pressure on each side of said fluid motors during periods of inactivity; a feed pressure pump adapted to be supplied with fluid from said traverse pressure pump and adapted to be adjusted for delivering predetermined quantities of fluid to selected sides of any one of said fluid motors independently of the pressure encountered in moving the piston of said motor; control means adapted upon selected operation to exhaust fluid from selected sides of said fluid motor, to select the side of said motor to which said pre-determined quantities of fluid are adapted to be delivered and to connect the side of said motor, opposite that to which said fluid is delivered, to the inlet of said feed-pressure pump ahead of said traverse-pressure pump; common means adapted to be pre-set for operating any of said control means; a source of power for opcrating said common means; and separate means for each path of, and responsive to said relative rectilinear movement for determining when said source of power is to be rendered eflective.

31. Apparatus comprising in combination, a plurality of appliances, each including a member adapted to be moved in either direction at a plurality' of speeds along a plurality of paths; a fluid motor connected to each of said members for each path along which it is adapted to be moved; means adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from selected sides of said fluid motors; presettable means associated with each appliance and common to its motors and adapted selectively to operate a plurality of means including means for controlling the pre-settablemeans associated with all other appliances and selected 01' its control means for the motors; a source 01' power for each appliance for operating its common means; and means responsive to the movement of the member of each appliance for determining when the source of power for its common means is to be rendered eflective.

32. Apparatus comprising in combination, a plurality of appliances, each including a member adapted to be moved in either direction at a plurality of speeds along a path; a fluid motor connected to each of said members; means adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from selected sides of said fluid motors; pre-settable means associated with each appliance adapted selectively to operate a plurality of means including means for controlling the pre-settable means associated with all other appliances and selected of the control means for its motor; a source of power for each appliance for operating its pre-settable means; and means responsive to the movement of I the member of each appliance for determining when the source of power for its pre-settable means is to be rendered effective.

33. In a fluidsystem, a fluid motor; a traversepressure pump adapted to maintain a balanced pressure on each side of said fluid motor during periods of inactivity; a feed-pressure pump adapted to be supplied with fluid from said traverse-pressure pump and adapted to be adJusted for delivering pre-determined quantities of fluid to selected sides of said fluid motor independently of the pressure encountered in moving the piston of said motor; and means adapted upon selective operation to exhaust fluid from selected sides of said fluid motor, to select the side of said motor to which said pre-determined quantities of fluid are adapted to be delivered and to connect the side of said motor, opposite that to which said fluid is delivered, to the inlet of said feed-pressure pump ahead of said traverse-pressure pump.

34. In a fluid system, a plurality of fluid motors; a traverse-pressure pump adapted to maintain a balanced pressure on each side of said fluid motors during periods of their inactivity; a feedpressure pump adapted to be supplied with fluid from said traverse-pressure pump and adapted to be adjusted for delivering pre-determined quantities of fluid to selected sides of said fluid motors independently of the pressure encountered in moving the pistons of said motors; and means adapted upon selective operation to exhaust fluid from selected sides of said fluid motors, to select the sides of said motors to which said predetermined quantities of fluid are adapted to be delivered and to connect the sides of said motors, opposite those to which said fluid is delivered, to

the inlet oi. said teed-pressure pump ahead or said traverse-pressure pump.

35. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; means for moving said member in either direction along a path at a plurality feed rates and at a traverse rate; control means for rendering saidfmember-moving means efl'ective; means associated with said control means for providing a time delay immediately prior to the movement of said member at traverse rate; means adapted to be preset. for selectively operating said control means; a source of power for operating said pre-settable means; and means responsive to the movement of said member for determining when said source of power is to be rendered effective.

36. Apparatus comprising in combination, a

ed selectively to be operated i'or controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said moalong a plurality of paths at a plurality of feed ,rates and at a traverse rate; separate fluid motors adapted to move said member along its respective paths at any of said rates; means adapttors; means associated with said control means member; means for moving said member in. either direction along a path at a plurality of feed rates and at a traverse rate; control means for rendering said member-moving means effective; means associated with said control means for providing a time delay of a pre-determined duration immediately prior to the movement of said mem- 5 3'7. Apparatus comprising in combination, a I

member; a fluid motor connected to said member; means adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the-admission of fluid to, and exhaust from said motor. for moving said member in either direction along a path at a plurality of feed rates and at a traverse rate; means associated with said control means for providing a time delay 01 a pre-determined duration immediately prior to the movement of said member at traverse rate; means adapted to be pre-set for selectively operating said control means and for determining the duration of said time delay; a source of power for operating said pre-settable means; and means responsive to the movement of said member for determining when said source of power is to be rendered efiective.

38. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member; means for moving said member in either direction along a plurality of paths at a plurality of feed rates and at a traverse rate; separate control means for each path along which said memi her is adapted to be moved for rendering said member-moving means effective; means associated with said control means for providing a time [for providing a time delay of a predetermined duration immediately prior to the movement of said member at traverse rate; common means adapted to be pre-set for selectively operating said control means and for determining the duration of said time delay; a source of power for operating said common means; and means responsive to the movement of said member for determining when said source of power is to be rendered eil'ective. a

711. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along apath at anyone 01' a plurality of speeds; a fluid-motor connected to said member; clamping'means associated with said fluid motor and delay immediately prior to the movement or said member at traverse rate; common means adapted to be pr-set for selectively operating said control 5 means; a source of power for operating said com mon means; and means responsive to the movesociated with said control means for providing a time delay oi a pre-determined duration immediately prior to the movement of said member at traverse rate; common means adapted to be pre-set for selectively operating said control means and for determining the duration of said normally acting to prevent its movement; a plurality of means adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission oi. fluid to, and exhaust from selected sides of said fluid motor for moving said member in either direction; pre-settable means adapted upon movement to operate any of said control means; means movable with said pre-settable means and'responsive to the movement of said member for efiecting movement oi said pre-settable means; and means rendered effective upon the actuation of any one of said control means for releasing said clamp means.

42. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be movedin either direction along any one of a plurality of paths at any one of a plurality of feed speeds and at a relatively rapid traverse speed; a fluid-motor connected to said member for each path along which it is adapted to be moved; clamp means associated with each of said fluid motors and normally acting to prevent their movement; a plurality of means adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to, and exhaust from selected sides of each of said fluid motors for moving said member in either direction at feed and traverse speeds along either of said paths;.pre-settable means adapted upon movement to operate any of said control means; means movable with said pre-settable means and responsive to the movement of said member for effecting movement of said pre-settable means; and means rendered eiiective upon the actuation of any one of said control means for releasing the clamp means associated with the motor governed by said control means.

v 43. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a path at any one of a plurality of speeds; a fluid motor for moving said member; means adapted selectively to be operated for controlling the admission of fluid to and exhaust from said fluid motor; means adapted to be pre-set for selectively operating one or more of a plurality oi pre-settable means.

44. Apparatus comprising in combination, a

member adapted to be moved in either direction along a path at any' one of a plurality of speeds; a fluid motor for moving said member; a control member including specific portions adapted adjustably to support means for selectively controlling the admission of fluid to and exhaust from said fluid motor; means for controlling the efiectiveness of said control member including a portion for each specific portion of said control member adapted adjustably to support means for controlling said control member; and means for maintaining said portions in exact phase relation at all times. 1

45. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a path at any one of a plurality of speeds; a fluid motor for moving said member; a control member including 'a plurality of portions, each adapted selectively to be set for controlling the admission of fluid to and exhaust from said fluid motor; means for controlling the starting, stopping and duration of motion of said member including a plurality of portions, one for each of said control-member portions; and means for maintaining all of said portions in exact phase relation at all times.

46. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a plurality of paths at any one of a plurality of speeds; fluid motors for moving said member along said paths; means adapted selectively to be operated ,for controlling the admission of fluid to and exhaust from said fluid motors; common means adapted to be Dre-set for selectively operating one or more of a plurality of means including selected of said controlling means; means for indexing said common pre-settable means from station to station; means responsive to the movement of said member along each of its paths for initiating the activity of said indexing means; and means for indexing said initiatingmeans simultaneously with the indexing of said common pre-settable means.

' 47. Apparatus comprising in combination, a member adapted to be moved in either direction along a plurality of paths at a plurality of speeds; fluid motors for moving said member along each of said paths; a common control member including a plurality of portions, each adapted selectively to be set for controlling the admission of fluid to and exhaust from said fluid motors; separate means for each path along which said member is adapted to be moved for controlling the starting, stopping and duration of motion of said member along said path, each of said separate means including a plurality of portions, one for,each of said control-member portions; and means for maintaining all of said portions in exact phase relation at all times.

48. In a fluid-motor apparatus of the class described, a control member including a plurality of portions, each adapted selectively to be set for causing said fluid-motor apparatus to produce any function of which it is capable; means for controlling the starting. stopping and duration of successive functions as dictated by the setting of successive portions of said control member, including a plurality of portions, one for each of said control-member portions; and means for maintaining all of said portions in exact phase relation at all times.

EDWARD P. BULLARD, III.

- CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION. Patent No. 2, 2,181 June 27, 19th.

EDWARD P. BULLARD, III.

It is hereby certified that error appears in the printed specification of the above numbered patent requiring correction as follows:

page 2, first column, line 18, after the word "spring" insert collet-;

page 8, first column, line 65, claim Z, strike out "direction"; 11886.11,

second column, lines 18end 19, claim 3 l,for "itscontrol means for the read --the control means for its--.; and that the said Letters Patent should be reed with this correction therein that the same may conform to the rec- 0rd of the case in the Patent Office.

Signed and. sealed this 12th day of Septenbe'r, A. D; 191414.,

Leslie Frazer ($651) Acting Commissioner of Patents. 

